Driver’s license renewal is about to change in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY — Starting next year, Utahns will only need to renew their driver’s license once every eight years, and Utahns with a good driving record will only have to go to the Driver License Division in person once every 16 years.

According to the Deseret News, the changes are meant to help the Driver License Division adapt to the influx of new people moving into Utah, while also synchronizing Utah’s licenses with the federal Real ID program.

The renewal fee will go up from $32 to $52, in part because you’re paying it less frequently. The per year cost stays roughly the same and is below the national average, according to Rep. Adam Robertson, R-Provo, who sponsored the legislation that implemented the changes.

The changes will not affect commercial licenses or a teen’s first driver’s license. Those young drivers will still need to revisit the Driver License Division when they turn 21.

Adults who are 65 years and older will now have to retake the eye vision test every eight years, instead of the current requirement of five years.